Ford will expand its Ranger lineup by adding Platinum and Tremor derivatives into one of the most comprehensive bakkie lineups in Mzansi. We have pricing and full specification details for the local market.
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Debuting two bespoke bakkie models to the local market, the Blue Oval has positioned the Ranger Platinum as a pinnacle of the range while the Tremor serves as a solution for buyers seeking an off-road and adventure-ready bakkie. Catering to different markets, the Platinum is aimed at discerning buyers who prioritise the comfort and refinement of a premium SUV while still retaining the functionality and utility of a bakkie. Dubbed the most luxurious and sophisticated Ranger ever, the Platinum is characterised by chrome exterior finishes and Matrix LED headlamps at the front end while 20-inch alloys come as standard. The bakkie bin incorporates the fixed sports hoop and side rails as standard, while the tailgate features additional damping for enhanced ease of use. Ford’s Cargo Management System is fitted as standard, aiding in securing all loads, while the useful roof rails are carried over from the Wildtrak models. Buyers can opt for the power roller shutter fitted as an added-cost option after choosing from five colour options namely; Iconic Silver, Frozen White, Carbonized Grey, Lucid Red and Agate Black.
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Inside, premium leather trim dominates surfaces and seats, which are 10-way power-adjustable and capable of being heated or cooled. A 12.4-inch instrument cluster borrowed from the Raptor, like the Matrix headlamps, serves as a widescreen display for all vehicle parameters with graphics and theme changing depending on the drive modes. Ford claims that it is highly configurable to suit the driver’s preferences.
“The new Ranger led the South African double cab segment in 2023, and for good reason thanks to its exceptional all-round capabilities whether used for work or play, along with its car-like driving characteristics and outstanding safety,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager for Marketing at Ford South Africa. “Ranger Platinum now takes the bakkie segment into unchartered territory by providing the exceptional levels of luxury, comfort and refinement normally associated with premium sport utility vehicles, or SUVs.
Numerous other trend-setting features found in the Wildtrak and Ranger Raptor are standard fare on the Platinum. This includes the 12.0-inch centre touchscreen display which incorporates the latest-generation SYNC 4A infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and wireless charging, SYNC Off-road screen, 360-degree camera system, and the premium B&O sound system with 10 speakers.
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As with the recently announced Ranger Tremor, the Platinum receives Pro Trailer Back-up Assist with Trailer Reverse Guidance, which has also been added to the Raptor and Wildtrak X as standard features and is available as an option on the Wildtrak derivatives. Pro Trailer Backup Assist takes the guesswork out of reversing the vehicle with a trailer, as the driver simply uses the rotary Selectable Drive Modes controller on the centre console to position the trailer where required. Trailer Reverse Guidance provides informational graphics and up to seven camera views to help reverse the trailer while the driver uses the steering wheel to control the direction. Ranger Platinum also features the full range of advanced driver aids such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Lane Centering, Active Park Assist with autonomous parallel and perpendicular parking, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, and seven Selectable Drive Modes (Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Sand and Rock Crawl). We have already gotten behind the wheel of the plush and premium Platinum bakkie in New Zeland, read our thoughts on it below.
Related: Review: Ford Ranger Platinum
Under the bonnet of the Platinum is Ford’s 3.0-litre V6 diesel which boasts 184 kW and 600 N.m and delivers power and twist to all corners via a full-time four-wheel drive system and 10-speed automatic transmission. The motivator can tow up to 3.5 tons.
The Tremor on the other hand receives Ford’s 2,0-litre four-cylinder Bi-Turbo diesel engine, producing 154 kW and 500 N.m of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, distributing power to all four wheels through an on-demand four-wheel-drive system, offering multiple settings for diverse driving conditions. Have a look at the link below for more comprehensive details on the adventure-ready bakkie.
Related: Specifications Unveiled for the Upcoming Ford Ranger Tremor
Indicative Pricing
- Ranger Platinum Double Cab 3.0L V6 4WD 10AT – R1 119 000
- Ranger Tremor Double Cab 2.0L BiT 4WD 10AT – R977 500
The Ranger Platinum and Ranger Tremor will be available in local showrooms at the end of Q1 2024 and will include Ford Protect comprising a four-year/120 000km warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty as standard.
